Anita Gamez

Weslaco- Anita Gamez, a cherished matriarch and a radiant source of love and laughter, passed away on March 17, 2025, at the Aurora House in Weslaco, Texas—just four years and one day after the passing of her beloved soulmate, Guadalupe "Lupe" Gamez. Born on July 10, 1940, in Weslaco, Anita devoted her life to her family, embodying strength, faith, and an unwavering spirit that touched the hearts of all who knew her.

A woman of remarkable dedication, Anita began as a migrant worker, traveling alongside her family for six months each year to help support their livelihood. During her teenage years, fate led her to Lupe while working up north, sparking a love story that would span a lifetime. The couple married on February 27, 1958, and together, they built a loving home, raising five children who continue to carry forward their legacy of unwavering love, resilience, and hard work.

Anita and Lupe were true partners in life, embracing the hardships and triumphs of agriculture as they traveled to Nebraska and Illinois with their children. Later, Anita dedicated 25 years of service to the Weslaco Independent School District’s custodial department, where her hard work and dedication left a lasting impact. Even beyond her daily work, she remained steadfast in supporting Lupe’s entrepreneurial ventures, dedicating evenings, weekends, and retirement to helping their family thrive. Her unwavering devotion and strength were the foundation of the Gamez family’s success and unity.

As the eldest, Anita naturally embraced the role of nurturer, guiding those around her with warmth and wisdom. She instilled in her children the values of kindness, discipline, and resilience, shaping them with the same unwavering love that defined her life. Her presence was a beacon of comfort and joy, bringing light to family and friends alike. Renowned for her deep faith and boundless love, Anita had a rare gift for making everyone feel cherished. Her radiant smile could brighten any room, and her quick wit and playful comebacks never failed to bring laughter—even in life’s most challenging moments.

Anita was more than a mother—she was a cherished friend to many. She found joy in long phone calls, staying connected with loved ones, and never missed an opportunity to gather family for any occasion. Her creativity shone through in her love for crafts, from coloring books to sewing beautiful dresses for herself, her daughters, and her beloved dolls. A spirited competitor, she thrived during game nights filled with dominoes and “chalupa”, where her playful nature and sharp wit came to life. She also treasured her visits to family in Louisiana, where she could visit with cousins. These trips were enhanced by the excitement of their visits to casinos, which added yet another spark to her vibrant and joyful spirit.

Anita’s love for cooking matched her appetite for good food. Her potato salad and picadillo red chile salsa will not be duplicated. Janie’s Cafe, Whataburger, Keno’s Cafe, and Denny’s were some of her favorite restaurants.

Anita frequently visited South Padre Island, which included fishing and enjoying a nice meal. When she returned home, Anita would relax with her favorite novelas.

In her later years, Anita's heart blossomed as she became increasingly engaged with her son's love for football. She cheered excitedly for her team. Memories of family gatherings, shared laughter, and heartfelt stories filled her days, bringing her immense happiness as she reminisced over old photographs and videos accompanied by her favorite music.

Anita is preceded in death by her parents, Pablo and Felicitas (Martinez) Abeldaño; her loving husband, Guadalupe “Lupe” Gamez, their son, Jose Gamez; daughter-in-law, Alicia Gamez; and brother, Roberto Abeldaño, nephews Roberto Barbosa Jr., Noe Rodriguez, Jose Antonio Rodriguez, Sylvestre Rodriguez Jr., niece, Letty and her husband, Terry Lopez.

She is survived by children, Elma Gamez Zamora (Eddie Galvan), Guadalupe “Lupe” Gamez Jr. (Alicia+), Jose “Joe” Gamez (Lucy), and Dahlia “Yaya” Gamez Rodriguez (Joe); grandchildren, Carlos Zamora, Michael Lee Zamora (Amanda), Denise Gamez, Pablo Gamez (Elizabeth), Danielle Rae Gamez, Joseph Gamez, Alyssa Gamez, Yvonne Tristan (Chris), Kassie Rodriguez (Jacob Saucedo), Jennifer Rodriguez, and Lori Rodriguez (Carlos Ledesma); siblings, Alfonso Abeldaño (Mine), Rolando Abeldaño, Pedro Abeldaño, Ramiro Abeldaño (Rosemary), Rosa Barbosa (Roberto Sr.+), Maria Rodriguez (Sylvestre Sr.), Teresa Ramirez (Chuy+), and Rachel Villarreal (Joe), and numerous great-grandchildren, nephews, and nieces.

Anita's life will be celebrated at McCaleb Funeral Home. Visitation will be on Friday, March 21, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM, with a prayer service at 7:00 PM. Her life will be celebrated on March 22, 2025, starting at 10:00 AM at McCaleb Funeral Home. Anita will be laid to rest beside her soulmate at Sacred Park Cemetery in Mercedes, Texas, at 11:00 AM.

As we remember the remarkable life of Anita Gamez, may her legacy of love, faith, and unyielding strength continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing her. She leaves behind a beautiful tapestry woven with memories, laughter, and the enduring lesson that love is the thread that binds us all.